Quick Fixes for Everyday IT Problems: How to Fix Slow Computers Without Calling IT
- Cehlan Sparks
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
We’ve all been there. You click, and… nothing. Your document takes forever to open, your browser has 20 tabs gasping for memory, and everything feels like it’s moving through molasses. If you’re stuck wondering, “Why is my computer so slow?”—you’re not alone.
A sluggish computer is more than just annoying—it kills productivity. But before you call IT or throw your laptop out the window, try these quick, DIY fixes that actually work.
How to Fix a Slow Computer Without Calling IT:
Close Background Programs and Tabs
One of the fastest ways to fix a slow computer without calling IT is by shutting down unnecessary apps and tabs.
Why It Helps:
Too many apps and browser tabs consume memory and CPU, slowing your system. A dozen open browser tabs (especially with video, chat, or dashboard tools) can make your machine feel like it’s running in slow motion.
What to Do:
On Windows: Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Click the Processes tab and sort by CPU or memory usage to find the biggest offenders.
On Mac: Open Activity Monitor from Applications > Utilities.
Close unnecessary apps—but avoid system processes. If unsure, restart and reopen only needed programs.
Pro tip: Restart regularly to clear memory and boost performance.
If your hard drive is nearly full, your computer has to work extra hard. That’s a recipe for slow performance. It can also slow down boot times and application launches.
Quick Fixes:
Empty the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac)
Uninstall software you don’t use anymore
Delete old downloads, temporary files, or duplicate documents
Built-in Tools:
Windows: Use Disk Cleanup or the new Storage Sense feature (found in Settings > System > Storage).
Mac: Go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage > Manage
Restart—Yes, Seriously
This isn’t just something IT says to get rid of you (well… sometimes). Restarting your computer can actually fix a wide range of performance issues.
Why It Works:
Restarting clears your system memory (RAM), closes background tasks that might be stuck, and often speeds things up noticeably—especially if you leave your machine running 24/7.
Best Practice:
Even if your computer seems fine, restart once a week. If it’s sluggish? Restart right now. You’ll be surprised how often this alone helps.
Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs
If your computer takes forever to boot up—or just feels sluggish from the get-go—you might have too many programs starting automatically.
How to Fix It:
On Windows: Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and go to the Startup tab. Disable anything you don’t need at startup.
On Mac: Go to System Settings > General > Login Items and remove apps you don’t use every day.
Rule of Thumb:
If you don’t recognize something, look it up—or leave it alone. Focus on disabling apps you personally installed (like Zoom, Spotify, Teams, etc.).
Check for Updates (But Not During Crunch Time)
Outdated software doesn’t just slow you down—it can leave your system vulnerable to security issues, crashes, and compatibility problems. Staying up to date can directly affect how fast your machine runs.
Do This:
Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
Mac: Open System Settings > General > Software Update
Smart Tip:
Don’t update during your busiest time of day. Instead, schedule updates for after work hours or lunch breaks. Where possible, enable auto-updates.
Final Thoughts: Know When It’s Time to Call in Backup
These quick IT fixes can solve the majority of day-to-day performance issues. But sometimes, a slow computer is a symptom of something deeper like malware, aging hardware, or misconfigured settings.
If none of these tips help—or if your slowness keeps coming back—it’s time to bring in some reinforcements.
At Cloudigan, we don’t just wait for things to break. We help small businesses proactively manage their devices, streamline systems, and get ahead of common tech frustrations.
Let Cloudigan run a quick device health check and set your team up with smarter, faster systems.👉 Book a free consult today.
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